The fifth season of the American remake of the British comedy series Ghosts has premiered on BBC iPlayer, drawing renewed acclaim from viewers and critics alike. The US version, which initially faced harsh criticism upon its 2021 debut, has now achieved an average audience score of 87% on Rotten Tomatoes, according to fan ratings cited in the article.
The original UK series, created by the stars of Horrible Histories and Yonderland, first aired in 2019 and followed a group of eccentric ghosts haunting a large manor inherited by an unassuming couple, Alison and Mike. It ran for five seasons and is set to return for a feature-length movie. In contrast, the American adaptation stars Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar as the central couple and has expanded significantly, with seasons containing 22 episodes compared to the UK's modest six-episode runs.
Initial Skepticism and Growing Success
When the US version first aired in 2021, it was labeled by some as a 'poor copy of the original,' a 'cheap knockoff,' and a 'flawed remake.' However, the show has since proven its detractors wrong. It has already been renewed for a sixth season, which will premiere in the US this autumn. The series has developed its own unique ghosts and storylines, diverging from the original plotlines by season five to create a distinct identity.
Fans who have watched the new season have expressed strong approval. On Rotten Tomatoes, Blanca M commented, 'The American version is consistent, pretty good with some bright moments.' Zane T added, 'Well if the last season was the best yet then this is better. It’s also the funniest season in the entire show. There are episodes in this season that will keep you laughing throughout.' Jen N reflected, 'First half of this season has the old magic back.'
Unique Appeal and Cultural Impact
Metro TV writer Asyia Iftikhar, who initially groaned at the idea of a US version, admitted to giving the show a chance and growing fond of its eccentric band of spirits. She highlighted characters such as Isaac, a gay Revolutionary War veteran; Flower, a 60s hippie; and Alberta, a self-obsessed jazz singer. Iftikhar noted that the longer seasons fill a void left by the UK version, offering more time with the ghosts.
Other fans echoed this sentiment. Cin C praised the series for keeping itself fresh with new situations, ghosts, and stunts, saying, 'The feel of an old sitcom is to be cherished. There aren’t many shows that manage to accomplish what Ghosts does in this day and age.' Phillip A called it 'such a fun show' and 'binge-worthy.' Fangirlish declared, 'Ghosts Season 5 continues to ensure that the series remains the best sitcom on TV.' Pop Culture Planet added, 'From new ghost powers to saving Jay from a Hell-ish fate, it’s always fun to see what shenanigans this found family gets up to. A top-tier cast that continues to deliver!'
Legacy and Availability
The success of Ghosts US has paved the way for more remakes, with Australia recently launching its own spin-off following the UK's traditional six-episode format. The Australian version features its own culturally and historically specific ghosts. All five seasons of Ghosts US are now streaming on BBC iPlayer, offering viewers the chance to catch up on the series that has won over former skeptics.
